I really think Google Maps would be one of the essentials when travelling, especially in Japan. The routes are all so complex compared to what I had in Singapore. @_@ I do think having basic Japanese would certainly help a lot as most Japanese aren't really good at other languages.

hi Jane! this is a random question, but could you let me know the hair salon you went to in Koreatown + the place you got your moles removed in LA? I am going there sometime this year, and want to go to both those places! Thanks so much